13th Infantry Regiment – The Harrower Collection

Sergeant: 589 Eugene Schuyler EARLE

January 14, 2024January 13, 2024 by David Harrower ACM

33rd BATTALION AIF

Sergeant: 589 Eugene Schuyler EARLE

Born: 8th April 1895. Armidale, New South Wales, Australia.

Died: 2nd December 1916. Killed in Action Armentieres, France.

Father: Albert Berry Earle. (1842-1904) aka "Alpheus Braisted Quackenbush" Died at Armidale, New South Wales, Australia.

Mother: Flora Margaret Earle. nee: McDonald. (1869-1935)

INFORMATION

Service number 589. Eugene Schuyler EARLE was born in Armidale, NSW on 8th April 1895, to Albert Berry and Flora Margaret Earle. Eugene enlisted on 16th January 1916 at Armidale, at the age of 21 years old. He was living in Armidale and working as a Bank Clerk. His father is deceased by this time and he gives his mother as his next-of-kin. He previously served 2 years 9 months with the 13th Battalion (Militia). He was rejected on a previous enlistment attempt due to an injured toe, now healed. Eugene was enlisted at Rutherford, NSW on the 18th April 1916 with the rank of Private and was allocated to “B” Company of the 33rd Battalion, 9th Brigade, and 3rd Division. He left from Sydney onboard the troop-ship HMAT (A74) ‘Marathon’ on the 4th May 1916. On that day Eugene was “officially” promoted to the rank of Sergeant. The journey was long and convoluted involving stops at Albany, Fremantle (where they returned for restocking coal after being ordered to proceed to England via Durban, not straight to Egypt), then to Durban, Cape Town, and Dakar, before finally arriving in Plymouth, England on 9th July. Disobedience, deserting and disembarking due to illness was common on this long voyage.

Once in England Eugene would have taken a train to Amesbury and marched 3 miles miles to Lark Hill, Durrington Camp, Wiltshire on 10th July. Eugene reported sick on the 6th September 1916 was admitted with influenza and discharged after 3 days. There, Eugene would have been trained in aspects of trench warfare and would have spent many days and nights within the tunnels and trench systems of the mock battle field at Larkhill. He left his mark by inscribing his name and service number and unit on the wall of a tunnel. The graffiti reads: “Sgt EARLE 33 AIF 23/9/16”. The 33rd Battalion left from Southampton for France on 21st November. After arriving at Le Havre, they spent 48 hours on the train in ‘cattle-trucks’ bound for Bailleul. They arrived in Steenwerck, France on the 24th, and moved to the trenches at Chaprelle d’Armentieres on the 27th. On the 2nd December 1916 Sergeant Eugene Schuyler Earle was killed in action near Armentieres, receiving a gunshot wound to the head from an enemy sniper. He is buried at the Cite Bonjean Military Cemetery at Armentieres, France.

On the 22nd July 1917 his mother writes asking for his personal effects as “It is almost eight (8) months since my son was killed in France”. On 20th August the AIF records the return of possessions from Wiltshire, including: 2 identity discs, belt, nail clippers, mirror, testament, 3 notebooks, wallet, photos, protractor, purse, book, 3 keys, scissors, knife, fountain pen, ink tablets, metal wristwatch. There survives a receipt of delivery for this signed by his mother and dated 26th August 1917. Another record lists possessions sent with the “Barunga”, including: 5 military books, a map, 8 notebooks, a diary, a novel, a belt, a lighter and playing cards. The “Barunga” is noted on Eugene’s service record as being lost at sea.

S.S. BARUNGA

Friday 19 July 1918.

The Argus (Melbourne, Victoria)

LONDON, July 17. 1918.

S.S. BARUNGA SUNK. ON WAY TO AUSTRALIA. Passengers and Crew Saved.

The steamer Barunga has been sunk while on a voyage to Australia. Only one casualty has been reported. Former German Steamer the Navy Office announced yesterday that the Barunga was torpedoed in English waters on July 16. The passengers and crew, it was added, have been landed, so far as could be ascertained, without casualties. The Barunga was formerly the Sumatra, a well known unit of the German Australian Line. She was launched in June 1913, at Flensburg, Germany, and was one of a group of steamers which at that time were regarded as being unsurpassed in the world as cargo carriers, each of them having a capacity for 12,000 tons of general freight, and possessing engines capable of developing a speed of over 13 knots. When the war broke out the Sumatra was discharging at Sydney, and was seized by the Commonwealth authorities. She was renamed the Barunga, and since has been employed continuously as a transport and a cargo carrier.

Trove Article

Lieutenant-Colonel L. J. Morshead, writing afterwards to Mrs. Earle, stated that her son, Sergeant Earle, was "fearless, reliable, honest, hardworking and conscientious, he was loved by his men and respected by all. In his quiet gentlemanly way he had the confidence of both his men and officers, and I had him on my list for a commission.”

Family Information

Eugene was a single 21 year old Bank clerk from the Bank of New South Wales at Armidale, N.S.W. upon his enlistment with the AIF. He served with the 13th Infantry Militia for 2 years and 9 months. Eugene was a Brother at the Pride of Armidale Lodge 135. His parents Albert Berry Earle and Flora Margaret Earle, lived at 'Earlton,' Armidale, New South Wales.

Albert Berry Earle. (1842-1904)

Flora Margaret Earle. nee: McDonald. (1869-1935)

Grave of Albert and Flora Earle. Armidale Cemetery

Dangersleigh War Memorial, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia

This privately built monument was designed and funded by Alfred Haroldston Perrott Snr to honour his son and other men from the district who were killed in the First World War. The monument was completed in May of 1921 on Alfred Perott's property "Chevy Chase" and in 1991 the Perrott family transferred trusteeship to the Dumaresq Shire council. The monument is full of symbolism which is explained in part on the monument itself and on the information on site. There are several graves of the Perrott family at the rear of the site which are in good condition.

Military Records

Under Construction: 04/01/2024-12/01/2024.

Lieutenant Colonel: Clifford Russell RICHARDSON

June 15, 2023 by David Harrower ACM

2nd BATTALION - 33rd BATTALION AIF

Lieutenant Colonel: Clifford Russell RICHARDSON. MC

Born: 1890. Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:4486/1890.

Married: 1918. Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:5998/1918.

Wife: Ethel Mary Richardson. nee: Snape. (1899-1982)

Died: 5th July 1946. 112 Mann Street, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:15184/1946. (Residence)

Father: Russell Richardson. (18..-1944) Died at Armidale, N.S.W. Death Cert:621/1944.

Mother: Florence May Richardson. nee: Arnott. (18..-1919) Died at Armidale, N.S.W. Death Cert:8356/1919.

INFORMATION

Clifford Russell Richardson Served with the NSW Senior Cadets for 7 years. He served with the 4th Australian Infantry Regiment and the 14th and 13th Infantry Regiments. He received his Commission as a 2nd Lieutenant on the 5th April 1909 and Lieutenant on the 15th August 1912 and to Captain in August 1913 when serving with the 14th Infantry at Armidale, N.S.W.

The photograph is of Captain Clifford Russell RICHARDSON in the uniform of a 14th Infantry officer and prior to the Great War, was a Captain in "A" Company (Armidale, Tenterfield, Glen Innes, Hillgrove, Uralla, and Inverell) of this Battalion.

Captain Richardson. 14th Infantry Militia

Captain Clifford Russell RICHARDSON, He enlisted on 27 August 1914 and was allotted to the 2nd Battalion, A Company which embarked from Sydney, New South Wales, on board HMAT A23 Suffolk on 18 October 1914. Subsequently RICHARDSON was Wounded in Action 25 April 1915. During the Great War RICHARDSON Returned to Australia, 6 July 1916.

Sydney Mail, 26 May 1915, p. 8.

Clifford disembarked in Egypt on the 8th December 1914 and was promoted to the rank of Major on the 5th of April 1915 and disembarked on the 25th April 1915 landing at the Gallipoli Peninsula with the 2nd Battalion where he was recommended for the Military Cross.

Military Cross

'On 25th April, 1915, during operations near Gaba Tepe, for displaying great coolness and courage, and leading a charge against superior numbers under a heavy cross fire, resulting in the flight of the enemy in disorder.'

Rank	Captain
Unit	2nd Australian Infantry Battalion
Service	Australian Imperial Force
Conflict/Operation	First World War, 1914-1918
Award	Military Cross
Commonwealth of Australia Gazette	11 September 1915 on page 1747 at position 12
London Gazette	3 June 1915 on page 5331 at position 10

Clifford was Wounded in Action at Gallipoli and was evacuated to Alexandria where he was admitted to the Deaconess War Hospital for a Gun Shot Wound to his Right Arm. Clifford was invalided to Australia on board the Hospital Ship "Karoola" and was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and appointed as the the first Commanding-Officer to the 33rd Battalion AIF.

Printed in 'The Armidale Chronicle' 23rd Feb 1916.

24th March 1916

Trove

Lieutenant Colonel RICHARDSON quickly became ill, and was then replaced by Major: Leslie James MORSHEAD, who was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and given the Command. He was then the only Commanding Officer of the Battalion while it was on active service.

Bill Durant: June 2023.

Family Information

Clifford was a single 24 year old Merchant storekeeper from Beardy Street, Armidale, New South Wales. His parents were married in 1889 at Redfern, N.S.W. Marriage Cert:3097/1889.

July 1945

Armidale. New South Wales

In the Will of CLIFFORD RUSSELL RICHARDSON late of Armidale in the State of NDSW Merchant, deceased. Application will be made after 14 days from the publication hereof that Probate of the last Will and Testament of the above named deceased dated 4th July 1945 may be granted to Ethel Mary Richardson and John Russell Richardson the Executrix and Executer in the said Will named. And all notices may be served at the undermentioned address. All creditors in the Estate of the deceased are hereby required to send in particulars of their claims to the undersigned. A.W. Stimpson & Co. Proctors for the Executors. Armidale.

Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser (NSW : 1856 - 1861; 1863 - 1889; 1891 - 1954), Friday 5 July 1946, page 6

MR. C. R. RICHARDSON

Death Occurs After Lengthy Illness

Mr. Clifford Russell Richardson, managing director of the firm of J. Richardson and Co. Pty. Ltd., of Armidale, passed away this afternoon at the age of 56 years.

The late Mr. Richardson was one of Armidale's best-known and respected citizens. The Richardson family has been associated with Armidale's growth for many years. The firm was established by Hon. John Richardson, who was succeeded by his son, the late Mr. Russell Richardson, who passed away two years ago. In 1918 the late Mr. Clifford Richardson entered business and subsequently assumed control of the company's affairs. He carried on until several

months ago, when failing health forced his retirement. The fourth generation, Mr. John Richardson, then took over, and he is assisted by his brother, Mr. Robert Richardson.

Deceased was a member of the original 2nd Battalion in World War I, and held the rank of captain. He gained his majority on the field. He was wounded at Gallipoli, and was the first Australian officer to be awarded the Military Cross in the war. He was invalided to England, where he assisted in the formation of the 33rd Australian Infantry Battalion, and then took reinforcements to Egypt, where he became very ill, and was invalided back to Australia.

The late Mr. C. R. Richardson In civic affairs, he was prominent for over 20 years. In 1923 he was a member of the Armidale City Council, and served as Deputy Mayor. He was foundation president of the Armidale Rotary Club, president of the Armidale Golf Club, and played a leading part in the location and establishment of the club on its present site. He was P.W.M. of the Masonic Lodge, Unity No. 6, patron of the R.S.S. and A.I.L.A., chairman of the Committee of Management of St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, chairman of the Armidale and New England Hospital Board for several years, a former director of the New England Building Society, secretary of the Armidale City Tennis Club in 1918-19, treasurer of T.A.S. Old Boys' Union, Guardian of Minors for the Armidale district, a life member of the Armidale Bowling Club, a member of the Committee of the Armidale and New England Jockey Club, trustee of the Baby Health Centre, and during the last war he served as Manpower Officer at Armidale.

In 1918 the late Mr. Richardson married Miss Molly Snape, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. P. J. Snape, formerly of Armidale, and now resident at Lindfield. He was educated at The Armidale School, and never lost his interest in the school. He is survived by his wife, two sons, Messrs. John Russell and Robert Russell, and one daughter, Miss Phil. Richardson. Both sons served in the last war.

The late Mr. Richardson possessed characteristics which won him firm friends in town and country. To those who did not know him intimately he gave the impression of being extremely reserved, but beneath a seemingly cold exterior he possessed a warm and charitable disposition. No worthy cause found him unresponsive, and his acts of generosity were legion. His advice was sought by old and young, and given as readily as was his money for charitable and patriotic causes. Although war injuries hampered his sporting activities, he never lost interest in club affairs, and he will be as well remembered by sportsmen and sportswomen as he will be by business associates and personal

friends. His uprightness of character and adherence to the highest ethics of the commercial code will be long remembered.

Tomorrow afternoon at 2.15 o'clock at the Masonic Temple a Lodge of Sorrow will be held, and at 3 o'clock a memorial service will be conducted in St. Paul's Presbyterian Church by the Rev. H. McNeil Saunders, M.A. The remains will be taken to Sydney tomorrow night for cremation.

Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser (NSW : 1856 - 1861; 1863 - 1889; 1891 - 1954), Monday 8 July 1946, page 6

SERVICE FOR LATE C. R. RICHARDSON

St. Paul's Filled to Capacity

ARMlDALE'S FINAL

TRIBUTE

St. Paul's Presbyterian Church was filled to overflowing on Saturday afternoon, when a service for the late Mr. C. R. Richardson was held.

Representatives from Armidale sporting bodies, the Armidale sub-branch of the R.S.L and A.I.L.A Armidale and New England Hospital, and the staff of J. Richardson

and Co. attended.

Pall-bearers were Messrs. T. Beesley, J. Mannix. J. O'Dell, F. Snell, B. Halpin and T. Cardwell.

"It could be said of this man, 'Large was his bounty and his soul sincere'," said Rev. H. MacNeil Saunders. M.A., who conducted the service. "From among us has gone forth into another realm hidden from our sight and understanding, a man who sojourned for 66 years amongst us. Life is measured in qualitative values, " and in Clifford Russell Richardson the measure was not stinted." he said. "As a citizen, it is not necessary that I speak of him. A rich spirit of public service animated his contribution to his fellows and guided his sense of duty.

"As an employer he held high a standard of integrity and justice, tempered with kindly humanity, the challenge and generosity of which will not vanish into the years. He had an intense personal interest in each member of the staff, treating and trusting them as friends rather than servants. He sought out secret ways to comfort and assist the afflicted. Only the imposter discovered his stern abhorrence of fraud and culpable failure.

"As a philanthropist his charity often knew no bounds, not even of prudence. Every worthy- cause awakened his practical sympathy. In deference to his life-long policy of reticence, we must leave his beneficiaries to keep alive in their hearts the good he did to them.

"It was in the Church, however," he continued, "that his deepest convictions found expression in deeds rather than words. Over 20 years ago he was elected to the Committee of Management; during the ministry of the Rev. A. M. Stevenson, M.A. who has remained his life long friend. For upwards of 10 years he has been the guiding soul of the board, as chairman, being loyal and understanding to his brethren and his Minister, efficient and far sighted with the temporal affairs entrusted to the managers.

"He scorned bigotry and helped all the denominational activities: of the city. But he was immovably loyal to his Presbyterian heritage, which he prized above all other interests in his life. His grandfather was a Minister of the Word, and in his own way he followed in his steps. He spoke for the committee at my social welcome, most of you recall, and there were no honied words.

Those who knew him best loved him most. To them we express our sorrow and commend them to the consolations of Christ which fail not. "He had faults and who has not? and he mourned over them deeply. He did not by clumsy artifice seek to hide that which cannot be hidden from God, and seldom is concealed from men, but rather he strove to overcome his faults. That inner heroism is not given to all men. God knows and God understands. Mr. Saunders concluded.

Bowlers Pay Tribute

At the afternoon tea adjournment at the Bowling Green on Saturday members observed a period of silence out of respect to the memory of the late Mr. C. R. Richardson. The president (Mr. K. Jones) said that Mr. Richardson had been a life member of the club, and although indifferent health had precluded his regular active participation in the game he never lost interest in club affairs, and was ever ready to assist its progress. His death was a loss to the commercial and sporting life of the community.

Trove

Funeral - Clifford Russell Richardson - 3:00pm Monday 8th July 1946 Northern Suburbs Crematorium.

27-November-2015

87 Douglas Street, The Armidale School, Barney Street entrance, Armidale, 2350

The Armidale School Gates, Erected in the Memory of Major C.R. Richardson MC

Monuments Australia

The gates, at the Barney Street entrance to the school, commemorate Major C. R. Richardson, a former pupil of the school who died in 1946. The gates, a gift from J. Richardson & Co. Limited, were opened and blessed by Bishop Moyes on 18th August, 1957.

Clifford Russell Richardson attended the Armidale School from February 1901 to Easter 1907. He was a prefect, vice-captain of the 1st XI, a member of the 1st XV and a sergeant in the cadets. He enlisted soon after war was declared in 1914 and sailed to Egypt later that year. Landing in Gallipoli, he was severely wounded in his right arm. The first Australian officer to be awarded the Military Cross, he died in 1946, aged 56.

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 14/06/2023.

Company Sergeant Major: 416 George Thomas FAINT

March 24, 2023March 14, 2023 by David Harrower ACM

33rd BATTALION AIF

Company Sergeant Major: 416 George Thomas FAINT

Born: 5th August 1894. Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:34058/1894.

Married 1: 1922. Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:3621/1922.

Wife 1: Jean Winter Faint. nee: Head. (1900-1924) Died at Newtown, N.S.W. Death Cert:7191/1924.

Married 2: 1927. Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:12297/1927.

Wife 2: Clarice Josephine Faint. nee: Post. (1906-1978)

Died: 12th August 1978. Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:105397/1978.

Father: Joseph Faint. (1866-1939)

Mother: Jane Faint. nee: Smyth. (1868-1928)

INFORMATION

George Thomas Faint enlisted with the AIF on the 10th November 1915 at Armidale New South Wales. He had served for 2 years with the 4th Infantry and 4 years with the 13th Infantry Citizens Forces before his enlistment.

George was marched in at Armidale Showground where the Military Camp was established. The composition of the 33rd Infantry Battalion was on a district basis. "A Company" was from Armidale and Tamworth, "B Company" was from Walcha, Uralla, Barabra, Bingara and Manilla. "C Company" was from Narrabri, Moree and Inverell. and "D Company was from Glen Innes, Guyra and Tenterfield.

The 33rd Battalion became a part of the 9th Brigade of the 3rd Australian Division. George was promoted to the rank of Sergeant the same day as the Battalion left Sydney on the 4th May 1916 bound for the United Kingdom aboard the HMAT A47 "Marathon" and disembarked at Devonport England on the 9th July 1917. After disembarkation the Battalion entrained during the afternoon for Amesbury, arriving at midnight and marching to hutments at No: 1 Camp, at the Durrington Army Camp at Larkhill. Here the Battalion settled down to hard training with the 9th Training Battalion, which included Route Marching, Trench Digging, Bomb Practice, Musketry and general Camp Routine. Later the Battalion moved to the No: 25 Camp and finished off their training, which included six days' battle practice and field work at the Bustard Trenches.

On the 21st November 1916 the 33rd Battalion left Larkhill and entrained at Amesbury for Southampton, embarking on the S.S "Arundel". The transport section left by S.S. "Princess Victoria". The Battalion arrived at Le Harve, France on the 22nd November 1916. Disembarkation commenced at 8:00am and the Battalion marched to No;1 camp on the Hill, arriving at 2:00pm. The men carried heavy loads, in some cases amounting to miniature Q.M.' Stores. The march over cobblestones was very tiring, notwithstanding the many route marches which had been carried out at Larkhill. However, after bathing their feet and receiving treatment, as well partaking of a good meal, some spent a comfortable night.

7th June 1917.

THE BATTLE OF MESSINES

The 3rd Australian Divisions first major offensive was at Messines Ridge on the 7th June 1917. The Australian 3rd Division was a part of the II Anzac Corps which was allotted to the first assault. The 25th New Zealand, 3rd Australian Division with the 4th Australian Division in reserve. The 4th Division were battle hardened troops who had fought many major battles. The 3rd Australian Division were having problems getting to the "jump off" point. The day before the 9th and 10th Infantry Brigades were bombarded by German Gas-Shells around Hill 63 and Ploegsteert Wood. Many of the Aussies were not wearing gas masks, but despite this they pressed on even though they received 500 casualties.

They made it to the "jump off" point but only just with some of the men from the 9th and 10th going straight over the top without stopping. The mines went up and the attack commenced behind a protective barrage. The II Anzac Corps were attacking on the right with their objective being the southern shoulder of the ridge which included Messines, the Dover and St Yves areas as far south to the east of Ploegsteert Wood.

Major General Sir John MONASH's 3rd Division had to contend with a tricky 3 mile approach out of Ploegsteert Wood and after the German gas attack, but they were not deterred. The 9th Infantry Brigade under Brigadier General: Alexander JOBSON and the 10th Infantry Brigade under Brigadier General W R NICHOLL had just made the jumping off point but some of the men did not stop, going straight into the assault from the approach march.

Their objective lay between St Yves and the Douve. The mines at Trench 127 and Trench 12 at Factory Farm were laid to aid this task. The explosions erupted a few seconds before zero hour and created craters of 200 feet in diameter, completely obliterating the German defence line as the 9th and 10th Infantry Brigades went over the top. The mine crates forced the 9th and 10th Brigades to veer to the left and right which caused some confusion with the main assault. It is testimony to the quality of training that every man knew the ground, tasks and objectives so well.

Private: 1804 John CARROLL 33rd Battalion, rushed the enemy's trench and bayoneted four of the German occupants. He then noticed a comrade in difficulties and went to his assistance, killing another German. He then attacked single handed a German Machine Gun Team, killing all three of them and capturing the gun. He later rescued two of his comrades who had been buried alive by German Shell Fire, and in spite of heavy shelling and machine gun fire he dug them out alive and saved them from certain death. John was awarded the Victoria Cross.

The German forward zone was completely engulfed and taken by the main assault. The two supporting battalions of each brigade then passed the leading battalion to continue the advance. The men were constantly re-supplied and the ridge was taken. There were many German prisoners taken during the offensive. The 3rd Division was well ahead with the 9th Infantry Brigade pushing on beyond Grey Farm, and on the right the 10th Infantry Brigade were veering left towards Septieme Barn north of Douve.

The German resistance was heavy but was generally brushed aside by tanks and artillery before the infantry had to become too involved. The 4th Bavarian Divisions Artillery had made little impact, but as the day wore on the 3rd Division and later the 4th Australian Division received many casualties from German artillery. (70% of all casualties during WW1 were from artillery).

By 9:00am nearly 6 hours after the assault began the Germans were in disarray, but there was a major problem as the Australians received less casualties as anticipated and when ordered to dig into the ridge they had so many men, that some could not find shelter. the 35th battalion were dug in around Seaforth Farm.

The second phase of the operation was to take the Oosttaverne Line. The 3rd Australian Division would now be in reserve with the 4th Division attacking. The 9th Infantry Brigade (33-34-35-36Bn) were near Thatched Cottage facing Warneton. The river Lys was to their right and the Ploegsteert Wood was now behind them.

Once their objectives were taken the troops consolidated. A barrage to stop and counter attack was shortened and caught three battalions which had to retire. By 9:00 pm this part of the Oosttaverne Line was abandoned. At 10:45 pm General: Alexander John GODLEY ordered the 3rd and 4th Divisions to retake it. This they did by the early hours of the 8th of June.

The Battle for Messines Ridge during May-June 1917 saw 35 officers and 1,631 other ranks loose their lives.

9th Infantry Brigade Casualties.

33rd Battalion. AIF	8 Officers	382 Other ranks
34th Battalion. AIF	10 Officers	378 Other ranks
35th Battalion. AIF	5 Officers	431 Other ranks
36th Battalion. AIF	9 Officers	421 Other ranks
9th Machine Gun Company. AIF	2 Officer	17 Other ranks
9th Light Trench Mortar Battery.	1 Officer	2 Other ranks

Field Dressing Station, Messines 07/06/1917

FIELD DRESSING STATION, MESSINES 7th June 1917.

George was Wounded in Action; 1st occasion on the 7th June 1917 at Messines and was treated by the 9th Australian Field Ambulance before we was evacuated to the Field Dressing Station for further treatment. George was transferred to the 56th General Hospital at Estaples the next day and upon his discharge he was invalided to England on the 20th June on board the Hospital Ship where he was admitted to the 1st London General Hospital at Camberwell suffering from a Gun Shot Wound to his Forearm.

After George was discharged from hospital he was granter a furlo before he had to report to the No:1 Command Depot at Perham Downs for overseas deployment from Southampton on the 23rd November 1917.

COUNTER ATTACK OPERATION. AFTERNOON AND EVENING MARCH 30TH, 1918.

33RD BATTALION A.I.F

At 10;30 a.m. on March 30th the 33rd Battalion moved from billets in CACHY to a position of readiness on the south Western edge of the BOIS D'AQUENNE. The enemy shelled CACHY from 10 a.m. but we suffered no casualties. At 2;15 p.m I reported to you at the Brigade Report Center at H.33,0,35,40 and received your orders to capture and establish a line from the Copse immediately South of the first c in MARCELCAVE to AUBERCOURT, and to capture AUBERCOURT which was in possession of the enemy. The 33rd would work in conjunction with the 12th Lancers, who were 400 strong, and would have the 34th in support.

The following orders were issued by me verbally to Company Commanders at 2;45 P.M. "B" Company Lieutenant: 5017 John Graham Antill POCKLEY will establish a line from the Oppue just South of the first C in MARCELCAVE to a point 100 yards east of the Crossroads to V.14.b. "A" Company Captain: John Lovelock FRY will establish a line from 100 yards East of the Cross Roads in V.14.b. to V.20.b.20.00. "D" Company Captain: James William SHREEVE. will capture AUBERCOURT and establish a line on the Eastern and Southern sides of the village. As DEMUIN is held by the enemy particular attention is to be paid to the roads loading over to do LUCE from BEMUIN and COUXCELLES. "C" Company Captain: Walter John Clare DUNCAN will be in reserve in the valley South East of the BOIS DE HANGARD and to be ready to capture DEMUIN.

Battalion Headquarters will be the Reserve Company "D" Teams, according to S.S. 156, will not take into action but will be sent to BLANCY TRONVILLE. At 3;10 p.m the Battalion marched under the command of Major: Francis George GRANT. from BOIS D'AQUENNE and moved across country to the West of VILLERS-BRETONNEUX - AUBECOURT road in U.12. This position was reached at 4;35 p.m. At 3;00 p.m I sent forward two patrols from the Platoon of the 9th Corps Cyclists to reconnoiter North and South of the wood East of BOIS DE HANGARD and then as far forward towards AUBERCOURT and MARCELCAVE as possible. I regret to report that the Platoon Commander Lieutenant: Phillip Charles GRATWICKE was killed.

Lieutenant: Phillip Charles GRANTWICKE. 9th Corps, Cyclist Battalion. Killed in Action 30th March 1918.

The 12th Lancers proceeded the Battalion and reached the wood East of BOIS DE HANGARD at about 4;15 p.m.(This wood was in future be referred as LANCERS WOOD) My Adjutant, Scout Officer and Cavalry Liaison Officer went ahead with the Cavalry and reconnoiter the position. On our way to LANCER WOOD we passed several bodies of troops particularly had recklessly entrenched in queer places and large parties of stragglers. On reaching the wood we found the whole front line garrison East of LANCER WOOD withdrawing although there was no hostile fire of any kind and no signs of attack. I met two Brigadiers and a Battalion Commander in the wood and informed them what was happening at once. This they promised to do. The Cavalry Commander also helped in this matter by sending a Squadron dismounted to re-establish the line. The infantry went forward with the cavalry but in a reluctant manner. During the whole time we sore forward men constantly leaving the line. The seemed to be no effort to check this straggling.

It was a proud privilege to be allowed to work with such a fine Regiment as the 12th Lancers. Their approach march instilled in the mementos confidence and enthusiasm and I am glad to say greatly counteracted the effect of so much straggling. They lost no time in effectively clearing LANCERS WOOD and get there just in time as the enemy had obtained a footing on the southern and South Eastern edges. The Lancers protected the edges and allowed us to move forward to the attack. On seeing the cavalry there the enemy shelled LANCER WOOD very heavily, chiefly with 5.0s. paying particular attention to our fringes. Fairly heavy casualties to horses were inflicted there, the horses were soon led from the wood to a position West of the VILLER-BRETONNEUX - AUBERCOURT Road. The discipline during the heavy shelling was a subject lesson. During the attack the cavalry protected both our flanks, the left with two Machine Guns. They withdrew at about 7.00 p.m.

All ranks were eager to give every possible help to us, throughout there was whole hearted cooperation. The experience gained in this our first operation with cavalry was invaluable. One was able too judge of the splendid work they are doing for the Army at this present time and they cannot be too highly praised. The 33rd Battalion moved forward from the position of assembly at 3:00 p.m. The formation adapted by Companies was as follows; One Platoon in extended order, followed by two Platoons in line in Artillery formation; the fourth Platoon in reserve also in Artillery formation.

"B" Company moved along the Northern edge of LANCER WOOD and widened its front on clearing the wood. "A" Company moved throughout the wood. Owing to enemy shelling while moving through, the whole company was extended into three lines and resumed normal formation on clearing the wood. No casualties were sustained in the wood. "B" Company worked in single file along the brindle track near the Southern edge of the wood and formed up under cover of the terraced bank on the South East edge. Three casualties were sustained on entering the wood. "C" Company formed up on the sunken road in U.18.a. and not where was first ordered, owing to the hostile shelling.

The movement forward was splendidly carried out. On the right slight opposition was en counted but easily disposed of. no real opposition was not until we were about 200 yards clear of the wood when all three Companies came very heavy machine gun and rifle fire. They deployed at once and moved forward without flinching. All ranks displayed the greatest determination and eagerness to get to the Bosch with the bayonet, this eagerness was to some extent responsible for the heavy casualties as the principle of advancing under covering fire was not sufficiently observed. On the Left most progress was made in spite of heavy losses, and the enemy hurriedly retired but on discovering later in strength he reformed.

The enemy was well entrenched and in strong force as we had no artillery support his fire was consequently extremely heavy and unfortunately very accurate. Owing to such strong opposition we were not able to reach our objectives. The attached map shows approximately the line we established. The line is well sited and is a very good defensive position. With determined troops the enemy could easily be held, and any advance he attempted would be very expensive. Owing to casualties and to the wide front the Reserve Company to reinforce the right flank. This Company made good the gap between the right and center Companies. At the same time I requested the 34th Battalion which was in support in U.18.a. and U.12.c. West of the VILLERS-BRETONNEUX - AUBERCOURT Road, to send a Company to reinforce the left flank. I instructed Company Commander Captain: Telford Graham GILDER. to reconnoiter the position first and then move forward at 6.00 p.m. This Company advanced in two lines of two Platoons each and took the newly-made enemy trenches about 250 yards East of the line then held by us, capturing two light machine guns one of which was damaged, and four prisoners belonging to 91st Oldenburg Regiment.

Wilhelm CONZE; Company-Leader in the 91st Infantry-Regiment (03 Apr 1917-14 Oct 1917) Wounded, in Reserve Hospital in Gotha (23 Mar 1918-22 May 1918) Transferred to the Replacement-Battalion of the 91st Infantry-Regiment (22 May 1918-01 Jul 1918) Company-Leader in the 91st Infantry-Regiment (01 Jul 1918-30 Sep 1918) In French Captivity (30 Sep 1918-14 Feb 1920) Released from Captivity and back with the Processing-Office of the 91st Infantry-Regiment (14 Feb 1920-29 Mar 1920)

Captain GILDER withdrew and made good the gap between the left and center Company's. At 10:00 p.m. I requested the C.O. 34th Battalion to send two company's forward, one to the sunken road in U.18.a the other to a position 300 yards North East of LANCER WOOD. At 11:00 p.m. the enemy attempted a local counter attack against my left company but was repelled. Heavy rain fell from early in the afternoon till late at night. Walking over the ploughed fields under such conditions affected the Lewis guns and rifles. Every man was drenched to the skin and very cold, but this did not dampen his ardour. All maps were soon rendered useless and the writing of messages was extremely difficult. Our flanks were somewhat in the air, on our left the Warwicks were about 600 yard behind. The 66th Division were on our right, but touch with them was not obtained.

In order to secure my right flank the right Support company, of the 34th Battalion supplied a Platoon for patrolling and also to establish a post South of LANCER WOOD on the VILLERS-BRETONNEUX - AUBERCOURT Road. Our front was well protected by Vickers and Lewis Guns. We had five Vickers guns from the 9th Australian Machine Gun Company - two covered either flank and one the center, and we had 25 Lewis guns. We were relieved by the 10th ESSEX and the ROYAL WEST SURREY Regiment of the 18th Division this morning; the relief Battalion Headquarters were established at V.7.d.30.95. The Pre-arranged position was unatonable.

Lieutenant Colonel: Leslie James MORSHEAD.

Commanding 33rd Battalion A.I.F.

4th-5th April 1918

The First VILLERS-BRETONNEUX

The Strength of the 9th Infantry Brigade was about 2,250 but their casualties during the 2 days of fighting numbered 30 Officers and 635 men either killed in action or missing.

9th Infantry Brigade Casualties.4th-5th April 1918

33rd Battalion. AIF	3 Officers	82 Other ranks
34th Battalion. AIF	5 Officers	120 Other ranks
35th Battalion. AIF	9 Officers	282 Other ranks (including 44 missing)
36th Battalion. AIF	12 Officers	133 Other ranks (including 1 missing)
9th Machine Gun Company. AIF	1 Officer	18 Other ranks (including 4 missing)

George was Wounded in Action; 2nd occasion on the 17th April 1918 and was again treated by the 9th Australian Field Ambulance for Gas Poisoning and was evacuated to the 12th Casualty Clearing Station for further treatment before being transferred and admitted to the 16th General Hospital at Le Treport on the 20th of April 1918. On the 16th September 1918 George was appointed Temporary Company Sergeant Major prior to the Armistice

11th November 1918.

ARMISTICE SIGNED

We could now tell by the news in the papers that the war was practically over although we (The Third Division) was told to hold ourselves in readiness to proceed to the line again – the 1st, 4th, and 5th Australian Divisions being already on their way back to the line. On Monday 11th November 1918 (the day the Armistice was signed) we marched to Alleray for a hot steam bath and on passing through Airaides found all the houses decorated with tri colours and the church bells pealing and the Frenchies running about like madmen. We wondered what was wrong and halted in the main street for a rest. The Captain then told us (he had interviewed the Mayor who had received a telegram saying that the Armistice was to be signed) that the Armistice was to be signed at 11 a.m. that morning – it was then about 10 a.m. We gave three cheers and could scarcely realize that the war was over. When we arrived back at Warlus the news had already reached there and the town was decorated &c. Next day we had a holiday from drill to celebrate Peace. The bells of the old French church chimed day and night for several days. Most of us attended the Victory Mass at the Roman Catholic Church and we also had a great Thanksgiving service out on the parade ground. Some of the men broke camp and went to the neighbouring cities and some got as far as Paris. Many were "pinched" and put in clink (gaol) as they had no leave passes – others were caught and sent back to the Battalion.

On the 16th December 1918 George was promoted to Company Sergeant Major and returned to Australia on the 20th July 1919.

Family Information

George was a single 21 year old Grazier from Kelly's Plains New South Wales upon his enlistment with the AIF. He returned from the was and married Jean Winter Head in 1922 who sadly died in 1924 and re married in 1927 to Clarice Josephine Post of Armidale, New South Wales. George served during World War 2 enlisting at Charlestown, service number: N73247

Grave of Jean Winter Faint. nee: Head. (1900-1924) Died at Newtown, N.S.W. Armidale Cemetery

33rd Battalion Re Union

Company Sergeant Major: 416 George Thomas FAINT - Private: 1242 George Easter STARK - Sergeant: 948 Anthony Christian SMITH - Private: 1501 John Frederick "George" SWILKS.

Military Records

World War 2 Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 21/06/2022-09/03/2023.

Private: 26 Ira Alvan BURTON.

November 28, 2021 by David Harrower ACM

34th BATTALION AIF

Private: 26 Ira Alvan BURTON.

Born: 16th June 1896. Rocky Creek via Uralla, New South Wales, Australia.

Married: 20th March 1920. Penrith, New South Wales, Australia.

Wife: Nina Louise Burton. nee: Turnbull.

Died: 6th February 1966. Bankstown, New South Wales, Australia

Father: Samuel Leonard Burton.

Mother: Eliza Burton. nee: Whackett.

INFORMATION

Ira Alvan Burton served with the 13th Infantry for 3 year prior to his enlistment with the AIF at Murrarundi, N.S.W. on the 22nd December 1915.

Salvation Army Gunnedah,

Military Records

Under Construction: 07/11/2021.

Private: 2574 Bertram Harold ELVIDGE

October 4, 2021 by David Harrower ACM

35th BATTALION AIF

Private: 2574 Bertram Harold ELVIDGE

Born: 21st December 1898. Broken Hill, New South Wales, Australia.

Married: 1922. Merewether, New South Wales, Australia.

Wife: Catherine Ursula Elvidge. nee: Power. (1901-1977)

Died: 28th August 1972. Auburn, New South Wales, Australia.

Father: Thomas Francis Elvidge. (1860-1912)

Mother: Sarah Ann Elvidge. nee: Jones. (1864-1953)

INFORMATION

Bertram Harold Elvidge enlisted with the AIF on the 31st July 1916

Gold Fobs presented to E.H.ELVIDGE from the Residents of New Lambton On His Departure to The War July 1916 and From the New Lambton Patriotic Committee on his return from the War August 1919. His fobs were auctioned in September 2021 and purchased by a private collector.

Family Information

Bertram was a single 18 year old Labourer from New Lambton, N.S.W. upon his enlistment with the AIF he served with the 13th Infantry Senior Cadets for 4 years. Bertram is buried at the Rookwood Cemetery Section Lawn3 Row 66 Plot 2340.

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 22/09/2021.

Bugler Sergeant: 2871 Charles Ernest SAMS

June 29, 2021June 27, 2021 by David Harrower ACM

35th BATTALION AIF

Bugler Sergeant: 2871 Charles Ernest SAMS

Born: 1895. Tamworth, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:37119/1895.

Married: 1921. Tamworth, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:14990/1921.

Wife: Dorothy May Sams. nee: Edmonds. (1904-31/12/1994) Died at Tamworth, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:

Died: 18th May 1960. Tamworth, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:13810/1960.

Father: Frederick William Sams. (1856-1933) Died at Tamworth, N.S.W. Death Cert:4352/1933.

Mother: Maria Elizabeth Sams. nee: Young. (1862-1924) Died at Tamworth, N.S.W. Death Cert:8350/1924.

INFORMATION

Charles Ernest Sams served with the 13th Infantry prior to his enlistment with the 19th Reinforcements 13th Battalion AIF at Armidale, N.S.W. He served for 135 days before he was discharged as his "Services no longer Required" on his parents request on the 18th July 1916. Charles enlisted again at the Rutherford Army Camp on the 6th November 1916 where he was allocated to the 6th Reinforcements 35th Battalion AIF with the rank of Private and was promoted to "Bugler Sergeant" on the 25th November 1916 and embarked from Sydney onboard HMAT A72 "Beltana" and disembarked at Devonport, England on the 29th January 1917.

Charles's original WW1 bugle belonging to Bugle Sergeant 2871 C.E. SAMS 35th Battalion AIF.

Stamped 'Hawkes & Son, Denman Street, Piccadilly Circus, London, 1916'

Hand engraved all around the bugle with his name 'C E Sams', a ladies head wearing a hat, the Union jack and Australian flag. Also a long thing, maybe a tree with a star on top?

Charles's Bugle was sold at auction in June 2021 to a private collector and I was unable to secure for the Harrower Collection as I was the under bidder.

Family Information

Charles was a single 19 year old Butcher from Armidale, N.S.W. when he enlisted with the 13th Battalion but was discharged on his "Parents Request" and re enlisted with the 6th Reinforcements 35th Battalion AIF and he lived at The Elms, Austey Street, Cessnock, New South Wales with his occupation still as a Butcher. His father Frederick William Sams of Bligh Street, Tamworth, N.S.W. was recorded as his next of kin.

Graves of Charles Sams (1895-1960) - Dorothy "Alice" Sams (1904-1994) Tamworth Cemetery

Military Records

© Commonwealth of Australia (National Archives of Australia)

Under Construction: 24/06/2021-27/06/2021.

Sergeant: 1454 Roland Samuel PENNING.

June 26, 2021May 1, 2020 by David Harrower ACM

33rd BATTALION AIF

Sergeant: 1454 Roland Samuel PENNING. Bandmaster

Born: 9th December 1888. Tenterfield, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:34738/1889.

Married: 1911. Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:4537/1911.

Wife: Amy May Penning. nee: Kingdom. (18..-1955) Died Wollongong, N.S.W, Australia. Death Cert:5923/1955.

Died: 7th December 1954. Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:31058/1954.

Father: Thomas Penning. (1834-1918)

Mother: Sarah Ann Penning. nee: Bond. (1850-1892)

INFORMATIONRoland Samuel Penning served with the 13th Infantry Battalion as Bandmaster prior to his enlistment with the AIF on the 21st February 1916 at Armidale, N.S.W. and embarked from Sydney on board HMAT A74 "Marathon" on the 4th May 1916 and disembarked at Devonport England on the 9th July 1916.

The Battalion spent the next four months in training at Larkhill where Roland was Charged on the 26th August with "Neglect of Duty" and received a reprimand before departed from Southampton, England on the 21st November 1916 at 4:30 pm and travelled by paddle steamer ‘Mona Queen’ to France arriving November 22, 1916 at 7:00 am in Le Havre. The Battalion moved in to the No:1 Rest Camp just in time for the onset of the terrible winter of 1916-17.

S.S. "MONA QUEEN"

Roland served in the lines until he was granted leave to England on the 9th January 1918 and returned to France on the 2nd of February where he was marched back to the front lines.

14th June 1918.

Informant; Private: 3105 Resolute Stanley MONTGOMERY He Private: 2916 Neville Dacre WILKINSON. was in my Company. A. I did not see casualty, but saw him shortly afterwards, lying dead at Hangard Wood. He had been hit by a M.G. bullet on body, and was in action at the time of casualty. He was killed in the afternoon of 30th March 1918. I knew him well and there is no other man of the same name in Company. I did not see his grave but he was buried near where he was killed at Hangard Wood, on the field. I cannot say if grave was marked. Ref to Sergeant: PENNING, Bandmaster, 33rd Battalion, for he was in charge of burial.

3rd Australian Auxiliary Hospital. Dartford, England.

Roland was treated by the 10th Australian Field Ambulance on the 11th July 1918 as he was suffering from "Pyrexia" and was evacuated to the 5th Australian Casualty Clearing Station for further treatment.

On the 14th July he was transferred to the 3rd General Hospital at Le Treport and upon his discharge was admitted to the 1st Convalescent Depot at Harve to await his evacuation to England. On the 22nd of August Roland was marched in at Weymouth, England suffering from "Chronic Myalgia" and returned to Australia on the 9th October 1918 and was discharged from the AIF on the 5th April 1919

Family InformationRoland was a married 27 year old Labourer from Taylor Street East Armidale, N.S.W. where he lived with his wife and their adopted child upon his enlistment with the AIF.

Military Records

Under Construction: 2014-16/05/2020.

Private: 3041 Arthur Albert ERWIN.

March 12, 2019March 5, 2019 by David Harrower ACM

33rd BATTALION - 34th BATTALION AIF

Private: 3041 Arthur Albert ERWIN.

Born: 1897. Armidale, New South Wales, Australia.

Died: 31st March 1917. Died of Wounds.

Father: William Erwin.

Mother:

INFORMATION

No.3041 Arthur Albert ERWIN was a 19 year old Bootmaker from Armidale in NSW when he enlisted in the AIF on the 31st of May 1916.

He was admitted to the Armidale Camp Hospital with Pneumonia over the period 3rd – 8th July, and then spent the 17th August till the 24th of August Convalescing. He was admitted to the Quarantine / Isolation-Camp at Milson Island from the 24th of November 1916 until the 4th of December.

He embarked from Australia with the 7th Reinforcements to the 34th Battalion on board the HMAT (A68) Anchises, which departed Sydney on the 24th of January 1917 and arrived at Devonport in England on the 27th of March. On arrival he was admitted to an Isolation Camp.

On the 7th of April 1917 he marched in to the 9th Training-Battalion, but on the 27th of April 1917 he was transferred to the Australian Details Camp at Fovant. On the following day he was taken-on-strength by the 63rd Battalion, which was part of a new Infantry Brigade then being formed in England.

The new Brigade was not to see overseas service and was soon disbanded. On the 23rd of August 1917 Arthur deployed from England across to France and was taken-on-strength by the 34th BATTALION AIF (Maitland’s Own) on the 2nd of September.

• Offence - On the 30th of December 1917 he was charged with: “While on Active Service – failing to appear at a place of parade appointed by his Commanding-Officer, in that he did not parade for a working-party at 5 p.m.”. He was found guilty and awarded 4 days of Field-Punishment No.2.

On the 2nd of October 1917 at Zonnebeeke in Belgium, he was WOUNDED-IN-ACTION suffering ‘Concussion’ from a nearby shell blast. He was admitted to the New Zealand Field Ambulance, and then transferred to the 3rd Casualty Clearing Station. He was finally admitted to the 56th General Hospital at Etaples. He later rejoined the 34th Battalion on the 23rd of October.

On the 30th of March 1918 during the attack on ‘Hangard Wood’ in Belgium he was WOUNDED-IN-ACTION, being struck by a bullet in the lung. He was first admitted to the 9th Field-Ambulance, then admitted to the 41st Casualty Clearing Station.

On the 31st of March 1918 at the 41st Casualty Clearing Station at Namps-au-Val he DIED-OF-WOUNDS and was buried in the ‘Namps-au-Val British Cemetery’.

His name is inscribed on the ‘Australian Roll-of-Honour’ at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra and on ‘The Armidale WW1 Memorial Fountain’ at Armidale in NSW.

Armidale War Memorial

The Armidale Chronicle (NSW 1894 - 1929) Sat 29 Mar 1919

(Bill Durrant: March 2019)

Family Information

Arthur was a single 19 year old Boot maker from Armidale, N.S.W. upon enlistment with the AIF. He served with the 1898 Quota, 13th Infantry for 4 years.

Military Records

Under Construction: 05/03/2019.

Private: 453 Edward Bliss JOLLY.

December 10, 2018November 20, 2018 by David Harrower ACM

33rd BATTALION AIF.

Private: 453 Edward Bliss JOLLY.

Born: 1896. Quirindi, New South Wales, Australia.

Married:

Wife:

Died: 1953. Mayfield, New South Wales, Australia.

Father: Edward Bliss Jolly. (1854-1934)

Mother: Esther Mary Jolly. nee: Nicholl. (1857-1934)

INFORMATION

Edward Bliss Jolly served with the 13th Infantry Regiment before he enlisted with B Company 33rd Battalion AIF on the 4th January 1916 at Armidale, N.S.W. before being transported to the Rutherford Army Camp on the 16th February 1916. Embarked on board HMAT A74 "Marathon"

Family Information

Edwards was a single 19 year old Labourer from Henry Street, Quirindi, N.S.W. upon enlistment with the AIF.

Circa 1950 at 25 Barton Street Mayfield New South Wales.

from back left James Jolly - Edward Bliss Jolly

front left Donald Alwyn Jolly- Edward Kenneth Jolly

Grave of Edward and Mary Jolly. Quirindi Cemetery.

Military Records

Under Construction: 20/11/2018.

Private: 1890 John “Jack” NOLAN.

January 24, 2024July 10, 2018 by David Harrower ACM

33rd BATTALION AIF.

Private: 1890 John "Jack" NOLAN.

Born: 10th February 1897. Narrabri, New South Wales, Australia. Birth Cert:14499/1897.

Married: 1921. Narrabri, New South Wales, Australia. Marriage Cert:3444/1921.

Wife: Katherine M Nolan. nee: Parsons.

Died: 1974. New South Wales, Australia. Death Cert:19871/1974.

Father: James Nolan.

Mother: Susan Elizabeth Nolan. nee: (18..-1944) Died at Narrabri, N.S.W. Death Cert:10875/1944.

INFORMATION

Jack Nolan enlisted with the AIF at Narrabri, N.S.W. on the 21st March 1916 before being marched in at the Armidale Depot and finally to the Rutherford Army Camp where he was allocated to the 2nd Reinforcements 33rd Battalion AIF on the 6th May 1916. Jack remained at Rutherford until the 3rd of September when the 2nd Reinforcements en trained from Farley Station for Sydney.

The Reinforcements spent the night at the Sydney Agricultural Show Ground and embarked for England on board HMAT "Port Sydney" on the 4th September and disembarked at Plymouth, England on the 29th October 1916.

The NOLAN Brothers - printed in The Daily Telegraph - 10 Dec 1917

Jack was en trained with the Reinforcements to the Durrington Army Camp at Lark hill and settled down to hard training, which included Route Marching, Trench Digging, Bomb Practice, Musketry and General Camp Routine. The Reinforcements proceeded overseas for France on the 20th December 1916 on board the "Princess Victoria" via Folkstone

7th June 1917.

THE BATTLE OF MESSINES

The Battle for Messines Ridge during May-June 1917 saw 35 officers and 1,631 other ranks loose their lives.

9th Infantry Brigade Casualties.

33rd Battalion. AIF	8 Officers	382 Other ranks
34th Battalion. AIF	10 Officers	378 Other ranks
35th Battalion. AIF	5 Officers	431 Other ranks
36th Battalion. AIF	9 Officers	421 Other ranks
9th Machine Gun Company. AIF	2 Officer	17 Other ranks
9th Light Trench Mortar Battery.	1 Officer	2 Other ranks

Field Dressing Station, Messines 07/06/1917

FIELD DRESSING STATION, MESSINES 7th June 1917. 12th June 1917

Nueve Eglise was the billeting area for the battle-weary remnants of the 33rd Battalion, when finally they were relieved from Messines on June 12th 1917. After 2 short days of rest they were again marched to new billets at Douleu, where they stayed for the next ten days. By then Command must have considered them sufficiently rested for they were ordered back into the front line, to relieve the 10th Cheshire Battalion on June 23rd.

(Never a Backward Step; Edwards 1996)

Military Medal was awarded to Private:Private Donald Cranston MURRAY 33rd Battalion on the 28th June 1917.

1st-7th July 1917. MESSINES.

35th Battalion occupied Support Trenches just S West of MESSINES (The Brigade being in Support) The Battalion HQ was established in our old front line. Enemy was fairly quiet except for Counter Battery work which was very constant. During this time men were constantly employed digging and improving communication trenches towards the new front line. On 1/7/17, 2 Lieut: Mortimer Eustace LYNE was wounded by a shell entering his dugout. Captain: Frank Harold JARRETT was wounded on the 5/7/17 by a piece of shell entering his dugout. He died of wounds received at 2:00 pm in the Main Dressing Station on the same date.

7th July 1917.

33rd Battalion AIF relieved by the 35th Bn AIF in Support Trenches MESSINES SECTOR 35th Bn went to Billets at NEUVE EGLISE. Casualties during the tour of duty in MESSINES SUPPORTS 28 including 4 killed.

On the 7th of July a special Parade held at ‘Hillside Camp’, when the Corps Commander presented Medals to sixteen members of the Australian 3rd Division.

Sergeant: 1425 Cyril Russell EATON. 33rd Battalion AIF. M.M

7th-11th July 1917. NEUVE EGLISE.

Rested and Trained whilst in Billets and also supplied small working parties.

11th July 1917. MESSINES.

Relieved 43rd Bn AIF in Case of Supports Messines Sector. (RIVER DOUVE to STIGNASTFARM) Brigade Relief. Supplied working parties while in Supports. We were at times subjected to fairly severe enemy shell fire while in Close Supports Casulties from 11-7-17 to 17/18-7-17 were 34 including 6 killed.

12th July 1917.

MESSINES Relieved 41st Battalion in Sector u.11.b to u-5-b as per Bn 0.0.47 d/9/7/17 and Intelligence summary d/127/17. Enemy Shelled road south of MESSINES and caught tail of relief Killing two. Two men killed and others wounded. Trenches found to be in very bad condition. They had been very badly sited no attention having been paid to conformation of ground. The first principles of trench siding had not been observed and no attention paid to drainage. Communication trenches were straight, shallow and through not having been duck boarded when dug had become quite impassable in places an account of mud. Front Line had rifle on us field of fire and both it and the Support line were crude observation from WARNETON from whence they were directly exploded in places.

(33rd Battalion War Diary)

Jack was Wounded in Action on the 22nd July 1917 where he received a Gun Shot Wound to his Right Thigh and was invalided to England where he was admitted to the city of London Hospital on the 30th of July and spent the next few moths recovering from his injuries. jack returned to Australia on the 21st December 1917 and was discharged from the AIF.

North Western Courier (Narrabri, NSW : 1913 - 1955), Monday 25 February 1918, page 2

Soldiers' Welcome.

DISTRIBUTION OF MEDALS TO RE-TURNED MEN.

On Friday night the Narrabri Town Hall was the scene of a hearty welcome home given to a number of soldiers who recently returned from the front. The hall was crowded, and as the soldiers took the platform they were greeted with an outburst of applause. Some of the men bore outward and visible signs of having been in the firing line, which fact assisted those present to realise what real soldiering implies. Despite their injuries

the returned men were bright, cheerful and thoroughly responsive to the warm welcome awarded to them by the citizens of Narrabri. None of them were able to express their feelings in speech. What good soldier was ever eloquent? The real Australian soldier man is more of a man of action than a man of words; he believes in doing rather than saying things, and, having done them he is far too modest to "shoulder his crutch and show how fields were won." There may be some "Bill Adamses" among those who left Australia to fight for Empire, home and beauty, but if such there be the "Courier" has not yet heard of them. The Mayor (Ald. Briscombe) presided, and he was assisted by the Mayor elect (Mr. P. J. Levey), Mr. J. J. Piper, Mrs Campbell (affectionately called "The Soldiers' Mother"), Mr. Crane, P.M., and Lieutenant Fletcher (Recruiting Officer). The speeches were not long, a fact that was appreciated by the large audience. The keynote of the gathering was thankfulness for the safe return of these Narrabri boys, and gratitude to them for having assisted their kinsfolk over the sea to stem the course of the swine-like Hun. A feature of the evening's enjoyment was a vocal and orchestral programme. The orchestra, under the guidance of Mr. Melville, played a number of selections, and vocal numbers were given by Miss Windsor, Miss Campbell, Mr Melville, Mr. Crane, and Mr Walker (West Narrabri). Mr Connington (West Narrabri), contributed monologue stunts that caused much merriment.

Every Item was received with applause, but so apropos was Mr. Crane's rendering of "The Heroes of the Dardanelles," that the audience made a not-to-be-denied demand for more. Unfortunately, Mr. Crane was unable to accede to the request, not having the score of another song with him. At the conclusion of the evening's entertainment a vote of thanks was awarded to all the singers and players that so generously gave their services. Mayor Briscombe said that the object of the gathering was to publicly welcome local boys who had returned from the war. Unfortunately it was not always possible to know when men were returning, but if any had been missed he desired to take this opportunity of thanking them on behalf of the townspeople. If there were any returned soldiers present that had not received a public welcome, he would ask them to come on the plat-form and share the honors with their brothers in arms. If any men had arrived home and had not been welcomed he could assure them that no slight was intended as the people of the town were eager to thank them for the heroic services they had rendered. The men that had gone away offered their lives for others. It was a big thing to offer one's life for some-one else. Not all, however, had had to pay the full price to make the supreme sacrifice. Some were fortunate enough to return safe and sound, and others again came back bearing the marks of battle. To those that had returned and were on the platform he desired, on behalf of the people of Narrabri, to tender a hearty welcome, and to congratulate them upon their safe return. Mrs Campbell, whom every one knew so well, and who had been called "The Soldiers' Mother," would present the medals, subscribed by the public, to the returned men.

He asked the audience to award the return soldiers a hearty welcome by acclamation, and, needless to say, his request was responded to vigorously. The P.M., Mr. Crane, made a brief but telling speech. In Western America, he said, where it was the custom to settle personal disputes by means of a revolver; if a man went out by this method and someone asked what had become of "Broncho Bill," it was said of him that he "spoke out of his turn." In Australia disputes were not settled in this manner, but people wore some-times accused of "batting in where they are not wanted." Whether he was butting in or not he claimed the right to support the welcome to those noble boys who had fought as representatives of the Empire, and as Australians who had raised the name of Australia to such a height as it could not have attained with a hundred years of advertising. He referred to Ashmead Bartlott's vivid description of the work of the Australians at Gallipoli and said that some of those they were welcoming that evening had shared in that heroic enterprise. He was pleased to see so many ladies present for women were a large factor in the present war. He understood their feelings as regards sending their boys away but thought that they, by using their hearts instead of their heads, sometimes did harm. Mr. Crane refer-red to the evidence of German outrages given before the Bryce Commission and quoted some facts relating to the fate of a Padre of a village near Mons and the Padre's niece, both of whom were killed by the Germans. Mr Crane also referred to Buckhardt, the German professor, who was so well received in Sydney during the Science Congress, held just prior to the out-break of war, and who immediately went home to Germany and wrote foul libels against Australian men and wo-

men in the German newspapers. In conclusion he said he was proud to offer his heartfelt congratulations and his humble praise to those boys who had set such a magnificent example to Narrabri, and the whole of Australia. Mr. Levey (Mayor elect), spoke a few words of welcome to the returned men. These soldiers had left Narrabri some two years ago, and had, un-fortunately been ignored by the enemy. They were no doubt glad to be home again in dear old Narrabri and, on behalf of the people of the town, he desired to welcome them home, and to express gratitude for the splendid services they had rendered to their

country. The best assurance the men could have of the feeling of the people towards the returned men was the fine meeting of citizens that had gathered there that evening. The Mayor then proceeded to call upon each man by name and to supply the audience with a few particulars of the soldier's career, after which Mrs Campbell stepped forward and presented the returned men with a gold me-dal, commemorative of the occasion. Private G. Selfe enlisted on May 18, 1916, in the 13th Battalion, and was in the trenches for seven months. He received his injuries at Messines. Private: 1890 Jack NOLAN enlisted in April, 1916, and was in the 33rd Battalion. He also received his medicine at Messines, and was one of the famous "Dinkums." Much applause resulted when the Mayor said it was Private Nolan's intention to return to the front. Private: 2332 Alfred Holland HAYNES was not present when his name was called, but is one of those to whom the public welcome was extended. Private Monte Davis is another returned man who was not present, and one for whom a medal was procured.

Private E. Knapp enlisted in Oct 1915, and saw service in Gallipoli and afterwards in France, where he was wounded. He had two and a half years' service to his credit. Private A. H. G. Sattler, joined the Australian forces in June, 1916, and was a member of the 53rd Battalion. He was wounded at Bullecourt during the great push. The Mayor said that medal were to be presented to the relatives of several of the Narrabri men that had fallen and among these were Private C. A. Witt, Private Orman, Private Peter Nolan and Corporal V. G. P. Brown. The medals for those men were presented to the relatives of the fallen men or were set aside to be forwarded to such relatives, the audience standing as a mark of respect for the fallen soldiers. Private Roy McCumstie, the Mayor explained, was in the hospital in Sydney, but it was hoped that it would not be long before he would be able to return home.

in Private Gates, the Mayor said they had a representative of the famous "Suicide Brigade," He was a machine gunner in the 5th Battalion, that made Australian history at the Peninsula. Lieut. Fletcher returned thanks on behalf of Private Gates, who, although present, was unable to address the audience. The other men present, after shaking hands with Mrs Campbell, made modest little speeches of thanks. Private Yeomans was another soldier who, as the Mayor said, looked hale and hearty after his experience, and who, with the rest, received a medal and a vote of thanks. A collection, taken up while Lieut. Fletcher related some amusing stories from his own experience at the front, realised £8 14s 1½d.

Trove

Narrabri-West War Memorial

His name is inscribed on the Australian Roll-of-Honour at the Australian War Memorial, on the Narrabri-West War Memorial, and on the Narrabri-West Public School WW1 Honour-Roll.

Narrabri-West Public School WW1 Honour-Roll

Family Information

John was a single 19 year old Draper from "Cooma" Cooma Street, West Narrabri N.S.W. upon enlistment with the AIF. John served with the 13th Infantry with his brother Private: 2374 Peter NOLAN who served with the 34th Battalion AIF and was Killed in Action on the 2nd October 1917.

Military Records